Some kids are just really hard to handle. Here's what to do if you get stuck babysitting for those kids!

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Steps

Method 1 of 3: Defusing Tantrums

If you are facing a challenging tantrum or full-on meltdown right at this moment, here are some tactics to try:

1

Distract them. Find a distraction that's more appealing than continuing the tantrum. Start building a blanket fort, get out a treat that requires some coordination (like a popsicle), sing a favorite song, pull out a new toy that you brought — whatever you think will capture immediate interest.

Try something silly. Perhaps pretend to trip over a rug and fall down.

Distractions and silliness tend to work best with younger kids who may be more impulsive and less able to control their actions.

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2

Give them some space. Assuming no safety issues, walk away for a few minutes to let the kid defuse their anger before trying one of the ideas above. When you return, they may be happy they are getting positive attention.

If the one having the tantrum is a younger sibling, the older siblings there may be able to help.

3

Enforce time out. If things are just getting out of control, time out is needed.

Try sending them to the corner for the amount of minutes as their age. For example, Sally is 8, hence 8 minutes in time out.

If they won't stay on their own, sit with them and make them stay.

4

Remove privileges. Threaten to take away privileges should you know what works and you're allowed to do. For example:

Remove TV time.

Cancel dessert.

Method 2 of 3: Preparing to Babysit

1

Get some guidance. Ask the parents how they handle any temper tantrums or other problems from their children, and ask for the best way to handle one should it occur.

2

Lay down some ground rules. Clarify acceptable and unacceptable behavior by talking to the children when you first arrive.

3

Come bearing gifts. Bring a toy or a treat with you to each babysitting session. If you bring something new and fun, it will head off boredom based tantrums.

Method 3 of 3: General Strategies

1

Report on issues. When the parents get home, tell them if there were any problems. Be constructive when you do so, and the parents should appreciate it. If you keep silent, you may find the children telling the parents some creative stories about you.

2

Stay calm. You may be frustrated, but don't take it out on the kids. See How to Calm Down for some more ways to keep your cool.

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Tips

Remember, though their mom is the boss while she is there, you are the boss when you are there. Remind the kids of that. YOU are in charge.

A last resort is to make the kids calm down is threaten to call mom. If that doesn't work, try fake calling her on the phone. Have a fake conversation and "discuss" the kids' behavior and what the punishment should be.

Though you are in charge, still do what mom wants. Clarify what mom's policy is on TV/Video and desserts, so that the kids can't lie to you.

Its good to take a class in first aid and CPR for babysitters. Check with your local city or mothers groups for class schedules.

Warnings

Keep safety primary in your mind. Do not allow violence to get out of hand.

Make sure you have the parents' cellphone numbers in case of emergency.